Anthony Richardson Injury: The Indianapolis Colts’ quarterback Anthony Richardson has been a lightning rod for excitement and concern since being drafted fourth overall in 2023. His explosive athleticism and dual-threat potential have fans buzzing, but his injury history is casting a shadow over his promising career. The latest blow came during a preseason game on August 8, 2025, when Richardson suffered a finger injury, raising fresh questions about his durability. Let’s unpack his injury saga, its implications for the Colts, and what it means for his future.
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A Promising Talent Plagued by Injuries
Anthony Richardson’s NFL journey has been anything but smooth. The 22-year-old quarterback, known for his powerful arm and electrifying runs, has missed significant time due to injuries. His rookie season in 2023 was cut short after just four games, and 2024 wasn’t much kinder, with him starting only 11 games. The latest incident—a dislocated pinkie finger on his throwing hand during a preseason clash against the Baltimore Ravens—has Colts fans holding their breath. While the injury isn’t season-ending, it’s another reminder of Richardson’s fragility.
- 2023 Season: Missed 13 games due to a concussion and a season-ending AC joint sprain requiring surgery.
- 2024 Season: Sidelined for 2.5 games with hip and oblique injuries; also benched briefly after a controversial “tap-out” moment.
- 2025 Preseason: Dislocated pinkie finger, ruled out for the remainder of the Ravens game.
The Latest Setback: Preseason Finger Injury
On August 8, 2025, Richardson’s preseason debut was cut short after a hit from Ravens edge rusher David Ojabo. Completing just 2 of 3 passes for 21 yards, he left the game holding his hand, with reports confirming a dislocated pinkie finger. Colts head coach Shane Steichen called it a “day-to-day” issue, noting the finger was popped back into place without long-term concerns. Still, the injury halted Richardson’s chance to solidify his case as the starting quarterback in a heated competition with Daniel Jones. Social media buzz, including posts from @SportMDAnalysis, highlighted the cringe-worthy moment when his finger bent awkwardly, amplifying concerns about his ability to stay healthy.
A History of Hard Hits
Richardson’s injury troubles aren’t new. His aggressive, run-heavy style makes him a thrilling playmaker but also a magnet for big hits. In 2023, a concussion in Week 2 and a Grade 3 AC joint sprain in Week 5 ended his season early. Last year, he battled hip and oblique injuries, missing time after a hit from Pittsburgh’s Minkah Fitzpatrick. Even in college at Florida, he dealt with a torn meniscus and a hamstring strain. His career completion percentage of 50.6% and 17 missed games over two seasons underscore the challenge: staying on the field is as critical as his performance.
Impact on the Colts’ Quarterback Battle
The Colts’ quarterback situation is a hot topic. With Daniel Jones, a free-agent signee, vying for the starting role, Richardson’s latest injury gives Jones an edge. Colts GM Chris Ballard has called it an “open competition,” and Richardson’s absence from minicamp due to shoulder soreness earlier this year didn’t help his case. Jones took first-team reps in Richardson’s absence during the preseason game, and reports suggest both quarterbacks have shown improvement in camp. If Richardson can’t stay healthy, Jones might seize the starting job, complicating the Colts’ plans for their former top draft pick.
What’s Next for Richardson?
Despite the setbacks, there’s hope. Richardson is expected to be ready for training camp, and his rehab for the finger injury is straightforward. He downplayed his shoulder issues earlier this summer, saying soreness is normal post-surgery. His dual-threat ability—635 rushing yards and 10 touchdowns in 15 career games—makes him a fantasy football darling and a potential QB1 if he can stay healthy. For now, Colts fans and fantasy owners alike are left watching his recovery closely, hoping he can finally string together a full season.
- Fantasy Outlook: High-ceiling QB1 potential but carries mid-low QB2 risk due to injuries.
- Key Dates: Training camp begins July 22; next preseason game against Green Bay on August 16.
- Focus Areas: Improving his 50.6% completion rate and decision-making to reduce injury risk.
Richardson’s talent is undeniable, but his health remains the biggest hurdle. As the Colts gear up for 2025, all eyes are on whether he can overcome his injury-prone label and claim the starting role.